HomeMy WebLinkAboutFebruary 27, 2023 Council Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2023
Hybrid Electronic Meeting
Council Chambers
7:00 pm
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Present:
Mayor Kevin Ashe
Councillors:
M. Brenner
S. Butt
L. Cook
M. Nagy
D. Pickles
L. Robinson
Also Present:
M. Carpino -Chief Administrative Officer
K. Bentley -Director, City Development & CBO
P. Bigioni -Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
S. Douglas-Murray - Director, Community Services
S. Boyd -Fire Chief
R. Holborn -Director, Engineering Services
F. Jadoon -Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects
S. Cassel -City Clerk
J. Halsall -Division Head, Finance
C. Rose -Chief Planner
V. Plouffe -Division Head, Operations Services
R. Apablaza -Manager, ERP & Financial Systems
R. Perera -Deputy Clerk
J. Bekramchand -Senior Financial Analyst, Capital & Debt Management
M. Cain -Corporate Security Specialist
1.Roll Call
The City Clerk certified that all Members of Council were present and participating in-
person.
2.Invocation
Mayor Ashe called the meeting to order and led Council in the saying of the Invocation.
3.Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement
Mayor Ashe read the Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement.
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4.Disclosure of Interest
No disclosures of interest were noted.
Resolution #71/23
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Cook
That the Chair be granted permission to amend the order of the agenda as deemed
appropriate regarding the attendance of The Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, M.P.P.
Pickering-Uxbridge, as it pertains to Item 6.1, Presentation of the Long Standing Service
Award to Councillor Brenner & Councillor Pickles. Minister Bethlenfalvy was delayed due
to inclement weather.
Carried
5.Adoption of Minutes
Resolution #72/23
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
Council Minutes, January 23, 2023
Special Council Minutes, January 27, 2023
Executive Committee Minutes, February 6, 2023
Special Council Minutes, February 6, 2023
Planning & Development Committee Minutes, February 6, 2023
Carried
6.Presentations
6.2 Mani Shankar, Mr. Lube Pickering (In Person)
Clint Scott, Unit Training Officer and Community Development Officer, PARA
Marine Search and Rescue (In Person)
Re: Presentation of a Donation to PARA Marine Search and Rescue
Mani Shankar, Mr. Lube Pickering, appeared before Council to present a cheque
in the amount of $2,000 to PARA Marine Search and Rescue and thanked Council
for the opportunity to present the cheque.
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Councillor Brenner stated that the donation was an important contribution to PARA
Marine Search and Rescue as it would assist them with continuing their efforts
towards rescue missions.
Clint Scott, Unit Training Officer and Community Development Officer, PARA
Marine Search and Rescue, spoke to funds from the local community assisting the
rescue missions of PARA and thanked both Council and Mr. Shankar for the ir
support.
7.Delegations
7.1 Phil Donohue
Re: Report LEG 03-23
Regulation of Short Term Rentals
Phil Donohue, Pickering Resident, appeared before Council to speak to Report
LEG 03-23. Mr. Donohue stated that 1964 Spruce Hill, a newly built home, was
currently being used as an Airbnb. He added that the property was being used for
parties and filming of adult films and spoke to an incident which occurred on the
property involving a shooting. He said that the house was quiet since the police
had attended the location and arrested some individuals in September 2022,
however, the parties started again in January 2023. Mr. Donohue stated that his
research had indicated that many municipalities had rules relating to the regulation
of Airbnbs. He noted that Report LEG 03-23 referenced the approach that was
taken by Ajax, however, it was important to note that the City to the west of
Pickering was doing something much more significant. He questioned how the by-
laws would be measured as it was important to have performance measures in
place. He noted that the residents were promised a meeting with the Durham
Regional Police Services (DRPS) since the September incident as they needed
support and reinforcement. In concluding his delegation, he stated that the Report
spoke to both short-term and long-term solutions, and added that the short-term
solutions would not be effective and that residents were afraid to make a
complaint.
Mayor Ashe stated that a meeting between the residents and the DRPS had been
scheduled.
7.2 Rick Troyan, True North Transparency
Re: Concerns Regarding Pickering Public Library’s Photography and Video Policy
Rick Troyan, True North Transparency, appeared before Council to discuss
concerns regarding Pickering Public Library’s Photography and Video Policy. Mr.
Troyan stated that he was a proud member of the Carcross Tagish First Nations
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Community in White horse, Yukon Territories and that he was the owner of True
North Transparency. He stated that in January he had decided to begin his
journey towards media expression and news gathering and attended the Central
Pickering Public Library branch to view the historical items room and added that
he had his camera to record the visit. He said that he met with two librarians and
the security guard who advised him that there were polices banning him from
filming without permission and added that the police were then phoned which
resulted in him being removed from the building. He advised that he visited
Pickering City Hall a month later and had a good experience, however, when he
attended the Pickering Public Library again to submit a Freedom of Information
request, he was served with a trespass order excluding him from entering onto
any Pickering Public Library property for one year. He noted that he was acting
under his rights to freedom of expression and news gathering and the right that he
was exercising was protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and
Freedoms which should have annulled the trespass order. He said that the
trespass order cited violent and threatening behavior in his video and that he was
not given an opportunity to comment. He added that the trespass order required
him to ask for permission to enter the building even after the expiration of the
trespass order. He said that the freedom of media expression was one of the most
important freedoms in a democratic society and that the limitation of this right may
lead to the end of democracy.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and Mr.
Troyan regarding:
whether he had delegated to the Pickering Public Library Board on this
matter;
whether he had received a copy of the Policy which prohibited the filming
on library property; and,
clarification that the intention of the filming was not to record children an d
people attending the library.
6.Presentations
6.1 The Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, M.P.P. Pickering-Uxbridge
Re: Presentation of the Long Standing Service Award to Councillor Brenner &
Councillor Pickles
The Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, M.P.P. Pickering-Uxbridge, appeared before
Council to present Long Standing Service Awards to Councillor Brenner and
Councillor Pickles. Minister Bethlenfalvy spoke to the Long Standing Award being
to recognize municipal elected officials with 25 or more years of service on a
municipal council. He spoke to the dedication and the contributions of Councillor
Brenner and Councillor Pickles.
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Councillor Brenner spoke to his time on Pickering Council and thanked residents
for placing confidence and trust in him.
Councillor Pickles spoke to his time on Pickering Council and stated that it was his
honour to serve on City Council and thanked his friends and family for their
support.
7.Delegations
7.3 Clint Scott, Unit Training Officer and Community Development Officer,
PARA Marine Search & Rescue
Re: PARA Marine Search & Rescue’s 2022 Annual Report and Strategic Plan for
2023 and Beyond
Clint Scott, Unit Training Officer and Community Development Officer, PARA
Marine Search and Rescue, appeared before Council to provide an annual update
on PARA Marine Search & Rescue. Through the aid of a PowerPoint presentation,
Mr. Scott noted that the PARA Marine Search & Rescue had been in service f or
50+ years and stated that the organization had gone through a number of vessels
over the past 56 years. He discussed the 5 to 10 Year Strategic and Business
Plan and spoke to the new vision and mission statements. He further discussed
Board membership, training with partners, maintaining SAR readiness, and
financial sustainability, 2022 Durham Region Report highlights, and maintaining
financial strength. He concluded his delegation by commenting on the asset
management plans to fund a vessel replacement with near shore capability.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and Mr. Scott
regarding:
whether the vessels had crossed the US border and whether the
vessels could navigate difficult waters;
how the weeds in the Frenchman’s Bay impacted their operations and
the vessels; and,
whether there was any opportunity to keep the old vessel as a backup
when the new vessel was purchased.
7.4 David Masters, Land Over Landings
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
David Masters, Land Over Landings, appeared before Council to speak to the
Notice of Motion regarding Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of
Resources. Mr. Masters noted that it was time for Council to reverse its decision
made in October 2017 supporting an airport in Pickering in the midst of a bid for
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an Amazon facility. He stated that he had spoken to Council in October 2017
regarding a line item in the development charges budget pertaining to a study on a
potential Pickering airport and was advised by the City that the line item was not in
relation to the proposed Pickering airport. He stated that money was still spent on
this matter including a luncheon for an Aerotropolis, an opinion poll to support an
airport being built, and that the former CAO had requested money from other
regional governments to undertake a study on the proposed Pickering airport. He
stated that it was time to stop wasting tax payer money on an airport in Pickering
and spoke to a Report conducted by Greater Toronto Airport Authority which
noted that the Toronto Pearson Airport was not at capacity and there would be no
need to build a six lane run way. He spoke to the decline of air travel due to
COVID-19 and the move towards virtual meetings and a recognition of climate
change. He stated that the KPMG report did not indicate that an airport would be
needed after 2036 and that while KPMG did consider other types of airports, it
found other levels of uncertainty. He stated that it was time to oppose the building
of an airport in Pickering as there was no sound business case and that it was the
time to use the lands for agricultural purposes. He spoke to supply chain issues
with regards to food supply and that these issues could be resolved with the use
of the agricultural lands in close proximity to urban centres.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and Mr.
Masters regarding:
the delegate’s role at Land Over Landings and the nature of the
organization including its source of funding;
whether there was a membership fee and the number of members that
were from Pickering; and,
whether any member of Land Over Landings had any involvement in
drafting the Notice of Motion and when the delegate was made aware of
the Notice of Motion.
7.5 Louis Davis
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
Louis Davis, Pickering Resident, joined the meeting via audio connection to speak
to the Notice of Motion regarding Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization
of Resources. He stated that as a longtime resident of Pickering, he was opposed
to an airport in Pickering and that residents of Pickering have told the different
levels of government the reasons why residents did not want an airport in
Pickering. He said that Pickering was not an area where an airport was needed
and that it was time to put the discussion to rest.
7.6 Mark Brooks, PickeringAirport.org Moderator, Friends of Pickering Airport
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
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Mark Brooks, PickeringAirport.org Moderator, Friends of Pickering Airport ,
appeared before Council to speak to the Notice of Motion regarding Opposition to
a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources. He stated that he was an active
pilot and through the aid of a PowerPoint presentation, Mr. B rooks spoke to how
an airport would be a critical element and a catalyst for development of the
eastern Toronto Region, the growth of Canadian aviation, adding that by 2023
aviation would be at a rate of 105%. He stated that Ontario was currently
experiencing an aviation capacity crisis and that the City of Oshawa was looking
to close their flight school in an effort to reduce air traffic. He spoke to the findings
of the ASA report and stated that none of the preconditions had been met to delay
an airport in Pickering and stated that the ASA report provided a sound business
case for an airport in Pickering. He further spoke to the potential of the lands to
create jobs and economic growth and that the revenue could be used to reduce
residential tax rates or increase services. He said that the City could achieve net
carbon zero with the use of net carbon zero fuel and new technologies.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and Mr.
Brooks regarding:
whether aviation was more climate friendly than other modes of
transportation and the impact of hydrogen energy;
how the ASA report was funded;
how the delegate was informed of the Notice of Motion;
the name of the company that the delegate flew with as an active pilot;
the sources used for the delegate’s presentation;
how the flying club was funded;
whether the delegate had any discussions with any City officials prior to
the Council meeting;
the number of active members in Friends of Pickering Airport and
whether any members were City employees;
whether the delegate was aware of a recent statement by the Minister of
Transportation regarding the proposed airport in Pickering;
whether the delegate was aware of the timing that Land Over Landings
received a copy of the KPMG study;
whether the Friends of Pickering Airport was the same as the flying club
and whether the report was on behalf of the flying club;
current projections related to aviation capacity; and,
capacity issues caused at Toronto Pearson Airport during Christmas.
7.7 Anne Woolger
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
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Anne Woolger, Toronto Resident, appeared before Council to speak to the Notice
of Motion regarding Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources.
Ms. Woogler stated that she was an advocate for refugees and was the founder of
Matthew House. She stated that in the mid-1960s her family moved from the
Toronto Beaches to a 10 acre property located at the seventh concession in
Pickering Township, where her father farmed on the lands and spoke to fond
memories of living Pickering. She stated that the lands were then expropriated by
the Federal Government for the proposed airport with their home being located on
a proposed runway and spoke to memories of feeling terrified and anxious about
the possibility of losing their home. She noted that the Government’s appraisal for
the lands did not provide any compensation for the trees that were grown by her
father. She said that her family had moved away in 1975 and discussed the
parallels of her situation and the experiences of refugees. In concluding her
delegation, Ms. Woogler asked Council to keep the subject lands for agricultural
uses.
7.8 Carmen Lishman
Paula Lishman
Marta Acuna Lishman
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
Carmen Lishman and Marta Acuna Lishman, Pickering Residents, appeared
before Council to speak to the Notice of Motion regarding Opposition to a
Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources. Ms. Lishman advised that her
family was expropriated from the property they lived at in Pickering over 50 years
ago. Ms. Lishman stated that there were numerous reasons for not needing an
airport in Pickering and that these reasons had been stated repeatedly in the past.
She noted that in 1969 her father had built a replica of a Lunar module in their
front yard as he was inspired by the moon landing and added that they were
grateful that 50 years later the lands were still available for agricultural u se. She
stated that residents cannot rely on food being flown from California and that the
remaining lands were an opportunity to advance food security. She stated that the
lands could be used for many purposes and it was time to use the lands to
improve critical food supply. She discussed her time living in the area and spoke
about a small common garden situated near the Kubota factory and stated that
with the effort of a small number of people, the bounty had fed all of the volunteers
and provided food to food banks. She added that the KPMG study illustrated that
there was no need for an airport now or later, and that opposing an airport would
be encouraging food security, agriculture, job creation, innovation, cultural and
environment protection, community building opportunities, and advancing the
quality of life for all Pickering residents.
7.9 Ivan Battye
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Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
Ivan Battye, Pickering Resident, appeared before Council to speak to the Notice of
Motion regarding Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources.
He referred to the written correspondence submitted as part of his delegation
adding that it was a copy of his delegation to the Durham Region Counci l. He
spoke to an article written by Gary Polonsky in March 13, 2019 placed in the local
newspaper, capacity statements for Toronto Pearson Airport, the Consultative
Committee background, a letter by Duncan Campbell noting that Toronto could
not produce 90 movements an hour within the way they do business, and the
current and the five year forecast for Toronto Pearson Airport. He also referred to
a statement by Minister of Transportation regarding no decision s or plans being
made to develop an airport in Pickering.
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and Mr.
Battye regarding:
whether the delegate was in support of the Notice of Motion; and,
the subject matter expertise of the delegate.
7.10 Lee Parsons, MGP City Plan Ltd.
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
Lee Parsons, MGP City Plan Ltd., appeared before Council to speak to the Notice
of Motion regarding Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources.
Mr. Parsons stated that MGP City Plan Ltd. worked on planning projects in
Canada and globally, and added that his role was to undertake a masterplan in
response to the opportunity to create a major new employment and transportation
focus for the eastern GTA. He noted that this would be a transformational project
for Pickering, Durham, and Hamilton area and advised that the lands were
identified by the Federal Government, the Durham Region, and Pickering for
economic development including the building of a new airport. He added that this
idea was not new and that it was endorsed by Council in 2017, and added that the
subject area would become a nexus of transportation and a powerful location for
advanced enterprise. He stated that at full development, the lands would be the
site for 60,000 jobs and indirect employment for Pickering, Durham, and greater
Toronto Hamilton area. He spoke to a vision of a multi-mode of transportation hub
which could be transformed to a major employment area and that t he need for this
vision had been established by policies by Pickering, Durham, and the Province of
Ontario. He urged Council to vote against the Notice of Motion to lay out a plan for
positive development for the future.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and Mr.
Parsons regarding:
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clarification regarding the previous motions passed by Pickering Council
supporting an airport in Pickering;
whether the delegate was a consultant for Pickering or Durham;
whether the delegate had met with City officials regarding the Notice of
Motion;
whether the delegate was aware of the innovation corridor;
whether the delegate was suggesting that a High Frequency Railway stop
in Pickering was conditional upon an airport in Pickering;
the name of the company the delegate was representing;
whether the delegate was aware of the RFP released by the government
for a High Frequency Railway; and,
how an airport could impact job growth.
7.11 Doug Moffatt
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
Doug Moffatt withdrew their delegation and did not appear before Council.
7.12 Helen Brenner
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
Helen Brenner withdrew their delegation and did not appear before Council.
7.13 Howard Shearer, Chief Executive, Canada, Hitachi Canada
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
Howard Shearer, Chief Executive, Canada, Hitachi Canada, appeared before
Council to speak to the Notice of Motion regarding Opposition to a Pickering
Airport and Utilization of Resources. Mr. Shearer stated that he was present on
behalf of Hitachi who had been in Canada for 50 years and worked on many
social innovation projects. He noted that Pickering had the capability to serve all
sectors of the community and added that the criteria for successful projects were
willing host communities. He added that if Pickering was not a willing host , they
would not be able to compete. He stated that Toronto Pearson Airport no longer
had capacity to accommodate the volume of air travel and that the rural areas
were now open for other opportunities, such as a High Frequency Railway. He
asked Council to imagine a High Frequency Railway station connected to an
airport and international flights entering Pickering. He stated that he was aware of
companies that would be investing in Pickering if there was an airport as this
would result in a free trade zone. He stated that there may be consequences of
opposing an airport as it may threaten the City’s future of growth.
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A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and Mr.
Shearer regarding:
clarification regarding free trade zones;
whether there was a business case for an airport in Pickering;
whether Hitachi was looking for a business venture in Pickering;
whether the High Frequency Railway was dependent on an airport in
Pickering;
clarification that the proposed airport in Pickering may not be an
international airport;
the impact of an airport on a growing job force; and,
the types of private business that may contribute to the building of an
airport in Pickering.
7.14 Marc Kealey, K&A Inc./Toronto East Project Group
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
Marc Kealey, K&A Inc./Toronto East Project Group, appeared before Council to
speak to the Notice of Motion regarding Opposition to a Pickering Airport and
Utilization of Resources. He noted that he used to be the administrator for the
Whitby General Hospital and that in 1995, the Provincial Government had
announced that there was a need to systemize health care in Ontario. He stated
that at the time he had advocated for a rehabilitation centre in Whitby and
discussed the opposition he had faced as a result of this advocacy. He stated that
currently Durham Region was a model for systemized healthcare and noted that
this was the result of the decision making by public officials. He noted that he was
the principle for K&A, a company that was experts in public policy, project
management, and governance and that he was also leading a group called the
Toronto East Project Group. He stated that the Region was built on innovation and
that an airport was an opportunity to create an advanced enterprise zone. He
spoke to changes coming towards the agriculture sector such as sustainability. He
stated that Council needed to build community benefit, create sustainability for the
future, and that the rights of the indigenous people should be part of their decision
making process.
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and Mr.
Kealey regarding:
whether local food security was building a community benefit;
whether the indigenous community was opposing an airport and the need
for continued dialogue; and,
whose legacy the airport project would be.
7.15 Peter Rodrigues
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
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Peter Rodrigues, Pickering Resident, appeared before Council to speak to the
Notice of Motion regarding Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of
Resources. He stated that he endorsed the comments made by David Masters
adding that Council needed to represent the opinions of the residents. He stated
that an airport could be built, but not on prime farm land and that with a High
Frequency Railway, the need for an airport would be reduced. He noted that it was
important to know the parties that would benefit from an airport and added that the
Toronto Pearson Airport was not at capacity. He spoke to a study conducted by
Pickering residents on the airport and that while Members of Council were invited
no one attended. He stated that there was no business case for an airport and
added that he hoped that the motion carried on a recorded unanimous vote.
7.16 Robert Lyon
Re: Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
Robert Lyon, Pickering Resident, appeared before Council to speak to the Notice
of Motion regarding Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources.
He asked Council to support an airport as it represented growth, progress,
opportunity, and financial stability for the City. He stated that the Federal
Government was advocating for 500,000 immigrants to enter Canada and that
majority of the newcomers would be coming to the GTA. Mr. Lyon advised that the
Federal Government continued to support for an airport in Pickering as the lands
were left for the airport when the Urban Rouge National Park was built. He added
that agriculture did not create a lot of jobs locally and that the agricultural lands in
northern Pickering did not allow for modern farming. He advised that the
Expropriations Act required the lands to be given back to the original owners
under the best possible conditions and that this was why the southern portion of
the lands were sold to the tenants or the original owners who were farmers.
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and Mr.
Lyon regarding:
the types of food sources being grown on the agricultural lands and their
purpose; and,
the immigrant population entering Canada and whether some could be
looking to farm land.
It was the consensus of Council to take a short recess.
Council recessed at 10:32 p.m. and reconvened at 10:49 p.m.
8.Correspondence
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8.1 Corr. 05-23
The Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Housing & Affairs
Re: The Streamline Development Approval Fund (SDAF) Program Extension
Resolution #73/23
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Robinson
That Corr. 05-23, from The Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Housing
& Affairs, dated January 24, 2023, regarding The Streamline Development
Approval Fund (SDAF) Program Extension, be received for information.
Carried
8.2 Corr. 06-23
Gary Muller, Director of Planning, The Regional Municipality of Durham
Re: Envision Durham – Release of the draft new Regional Off icial Plan (Report
#2023-P-**)
Resolution #74/23
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Robinson
That Corr. 06-23, from Gary Muller, Director of Planning, The Regional
Municipality of Durham, dated February 10, 2023, regarding Envision Durham –
Release of the draft new Regional Off icial Plan (Report #2023-P-**), be received
for information.
Carried
8.3 Corr. 07-23
Ontario’s Big City Mayors (OBCM)
Re: Motion – OBCM Recommendations on the Health and Homelessness Crisis
A detailed question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and
staff regarding the details contained in the OBCM motion with the Chief
Administrative Officer noting that the Region was responsible for delivering
services relating to health and social matters, including homelessness, and that
staff would be happy to obtain information from the Region and OBCM and share
it with Council.
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Resolution #75/23
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Robinson
1.That Corr. 07-23, from Ontario’s Big City Mayors, regarding Motion –
OBCM Recommendations on the Health and Homelessness Crisis, be
received for information and endorsed; and,
2.That a copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the The Honourable Sylvia
Jones, Minister of Health and The Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, Member
of Provincial Parliament, Pickering-Uxbridge.
Carried
8.4 Corr. 08-23
Sarah Douglas-Murray, Director, Community Services, City of Pickering
Re: Artifact Deaccession at Pickering Museum Village
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
the manner and the place in which the deaccessions would take place;
whether any of the artifacts were located outside;
how the explosive artifact was overlooked;
whether the committee looked at artifact X974.136.1.through a lens of
diversity and whether the mannequin was Caucasian;
which artifacts did not reflect the community;
the process undertaken by staff to asses each artifact;
which artifacts were duplicates;
the number of collections held by the museum;
how the lack of relevance of an artifact was decided;
qualifications of the staff who conducted the assessment of the artifacts;
whether there was a policy that would allow staff to receive a second
opinion;
why the City would purchase new artifacts when there was a lack of
available resources to preserve the existing artifacts; and,
whether a list of hazardous artifacts was available.
Resolution #76/23
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Robinson
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That Corr. 08-23, from Sarah Douglas-Murray, Director, Community Services, City
of Pickering, dated February 16, 2023, requesting approval for the deaccession of
artifacts as proposed by City staff and endorsed by the Cultural Advisory
Committee on January 17, 2023, be approved.
Carried Later in the Meeting (See Following Motion)
Resolution #77/23
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Cook
That the main motion be amended to read as follows:
That Corr. 08-23, from Sarah Douglas-Murray, Director, Community Services, City
of Pickering, dated February 16, 2023, requesting approval for the deaccession of
artifacts as proposed by City staff and endorsed by the Cultural Advisory
Committee on January 17, 2023, be approved, save and except Item X974.136.1.
The Main Motion, as Amended, was then Carried
8.5 Corr. 09-23
Jaclyn San Antonio, Senior Advisor, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, City of Pickering
Re: Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce -2022 Year End Report and Proposed
2023 Work Plan
Resolution #78/23
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Robinson
That Corr. 09-23, from Jaclyn San Antonio, Senior Advisor, Equity, Diversity &
Inclusion, City of Pickering, dated February 17, 2023, regarding
the Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce 2022 Year End Report and Proposed
2023 Work Plan, be received for information.
Carried
9.Report EC 02-23 of the Executive Committee held on February 6, 2023
9.1 Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 02-23
Memorandum of Understanding for the Sharing of Pickering Casino Revenues
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-The Corporation of the City of Pickering and The Regional Municipality of
Durham
Council Decision:
1.That Report CAO 02-23 regarding the Memorandum of Understanding for
the Sharing of Pickering Casino Revenues be received;
2.That Council approve the Memorandum of Understanding for the Sharing of
Pickering Casino Revenues between The Corporation of the City of
Pickering and The Regional Municipality of Durham as set out in
Attachment 5, and that the said Memorandum of Understanding be
executed by the Mayor and the City Clerk subject to minor revisions
acceptable to the Chief Administrative Officer and the Director, Corporate
Services & City Solicitor;
3.That the City Clerk forward a copy of Report CAO 02-23 to The Regional
Municipality of Durham and all lower tier municipalities of Durham Region;
and,
4.That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be given authority to take the
necessary actions to give effect thereto.
9.2 Director, Community Services, Report CS 03-23
Beach Volleyball Court License Agreement
-Ontario Volleyball Association
Council Decision:
1.That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the License
Agreement set out in Attachment 1 of this Report to which Ontario
Volleyball Association will be permitted to operate beach volleyball
programs in Diana, Princess of Wales Park for a five year term beginning
May 1, 2023 and ending September 30, 2027, subject to minor revisions
acceptable to the Director, Community Services and the Director,
Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and,
2.That the appropriate City officials be authorized to take the necessary
actions as indicated in this report.
9.3 Director, Community Services, Report CS 04-23
George Ashe Retrofit
-Green and Inclusive Community Building Fund Application
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Council Decision:
1.That staff be directed, through the Chief Administrative Officer, to submit an
application under the Government of Canada’s Green and Inclusive
Community Building (GICB) program for the retrofit of George Ashe Library
& Community Centre;
2.That Pickering Council supports the George Ashe Libra ry & Community
Centre application for the Government of Canada’s GICB program; and,
3.That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary action to give effect hereto.
9.4 Director, Operations, Report OPS 03-23
Pickering Heritage & Community Centre
-Additional Archaeological Work
Council Decision:
1.That Report OPS 03-23 regarding additional archaeological work to be
completed for the Pickering Heritage & Community Centre (PHCC) at the
Pickering Museum Village be received;
2.That Council approve the hiring of Archaeological Services Inc. for
Consulting and Professional Services for the Archaeological Assessment of
the PHCC project site in accordance with Purchasing Policy 10.03 (c), as
the assignment is above $50,000.00;
3.That the fee proposal submitted by Archaeological Services Inc. for
Consulting and Professional Services for the Archaeological Assessment of
the PHCC project site in the amount of $166,957.50 (HST Included) be
accepted;
4.That the total gross project cost of $364,708.00 (HST included), including
the fee amount and other associated costs, and the total net project cost of
$328,431.00 (net of HST rebate) be approved;
5.That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net
costs of $328,431.00 from PHCC Construction capital project as approved
in the 2021 Capital Budget as follows:
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a)The sum of $100,171.00 from the DC – Parks & Recreation Reserve
Fund;
b)The sum of $8,868.00 from the DC – Library Reserve Fund;
c)The sum of $215,451.00 from the Rate Stabilization Reserve;
d)The sum of $3,941.00 from the Community Benefit Charge Reserve
Fund; and,
6.That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary action to give effect hereto.
9.5 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 04-23
Municipal Housing Targets and Municipal Housing Pledges
Council Decision:
1.That Report PLN 04-23 regarding Municipal Housing Targets and Municipal
Housing Pledges be received;
2.That Council advise the Honourable Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal
Affairs and Housing (MMAH), that Report PLN 04-23, constitutes the City of
Pickering’s Housing Pledge, as requested in his letter to the City’s Clerk,
dated October 25, 2022;
3.That Council advise the Honourable Steve Clark, MMAH, that it generally
supports the Municipal Housing Target of 13,000 new homes by 2031,
established by the Province for the City of Pickering, yet further advises
that the City’s development approval processes are but one small part of a
very complex system that delivers housing to the market;
4.That Council advise Premier Doug Ford and Honourable Steve Clark, of the
following:
a.that it appreciates the Province’s recognition of the cumulative cost put
on the construction of housing (including rental, affordable ownership
and rental, and on attainable (still undefined)), of development charges,
community benefits charges, and parkland contributions; and similarly
advises
b.that, if the funding for these services and facilities are to be transferred
from these municipal charges to the property tax base, that home
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owners or tenants will bear the increased cost of home ownership,
which will also jeopardize housing affordability; and,
c.that the City of Pickering welcomes the Premier’s guarantee to keep
municipalities financially whole;
5.That Council request the Honourable Steve Clark, MMAH, to obtain similar
housing pledge commitments from the building community (through the
Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD)).
6.That Council direct, through the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer,
that the following initiative be undertaken:
a.That the Director, City Development & CBO, in finalizing the first annual
City of Pickering Housing Monitoring Report (as required by the Council
adopted Pickering Housing Action Plan, 2021, Action 3.7), identify any
proposed revisions to the Action Plan that would further assist in
meeting the Municipal Housing Targets; and,
7.That a copy of Report PLN 04-23 and Council’s resolution thereon be
forwarded to Premier Ford, Minister Clark, MMAH, The Honourable Peter
Bethlenfalvy, Region of Durham, and area municipalities.
Resolution #79/23
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Cook
That Report EC 02-23 of the Executive Committee Meeting held on February 6,
2023 be adopted.
Carried
10.Report PD 02-23 of the Planning & Development Committee held on February 6,
2023
10.1 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 03-23
Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-02
Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 04/22
Caplink Limited
Part Lots 27 and 28, Concession 5
Seaton Community
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A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
what type of food would be produced at the facility; and,
confirmation that live farming would not take place on the subject property.
Resolution #80/23
Moved by Councillor Pickles
Seconded by Councillor Butt
1.That Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-02, submitted by
Caplink Limited, on lands being Part Lots 27 and 28, Concession 5, within
the Pickering Innovation Corridor, to establish a plan of subdivision
consisting of 4 blocks for employment uses, and blocks for stormwater
management facility, natural heritage system, road widening, and a new
municipal road, as shown on Attachment #4 to Report PLN 03-23, and the
implementing conditions of approval, as set out in Appendix I, be endorsed;
and,
2.That Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 04/22, submitted by Caplink
Limited, to implement Draft Plan of Subdivision SP 2022-02 and permit a
food manufacturing campus on lands being Part Lots 27 and 28,
Concession 5, be approved, and that the draft Zoning By-law Amendment
as set out in Appendix II to Report PLN 03 -23, be finalized and forwarded
to Council for enactment.
Carried
11.Reports – New and Unfinished Business
11.1 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report BYL 01-23
Electric Kick Scooter By-law
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
which roads the E-scooters would be permitted to travel on;
concerns regarding persons over the age of 18 being able to drive an E -
scooter without a helmet in accordance with provincial laws;
whether the Region’s by-law was similar to the proposed City By-law;
the need to educate the public on which sidewalks could be used for E-
scooters;
whether enforcement would be done through the DRPS; and;
whether a E-scooter driver could be charged for driving under the influence
of alcohol.
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Resolution #81/23
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Cook
1.That Report BYL 01-23 regarding Electric Kick Scooter By-law be received;
2.That the Electronic Kick Scooter By-law attached to this report (Attachment
1) be enacted; and,
3.That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions
necessary to implement the recommendations in this Report.
Carried
11.2 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report BYL 03-23
Towing and Impound Services
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
how the vendor was selected and whether the company was recommended
by the DRPS;
whether the towing would occur on both public and private roads;
the names of the vendors used by the other Durham municipalities; and,
whether the rates would be fixed for the duration of the Agreement.
Resolution #82/23
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
1.That an agreement with 1105729 Ontario Inc. Operating As Classic Towing
& Storage be approved substantially in the form attached to this Report,
subject to revisions acceptable to the Director, Corporate Services & City
Solicitor;
2.That the Mayor and the City Clerk be authorized to execute the said
agreement on the City’s behalf; and,
3.That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
such actions as are necessary to give effect to the recommendations in this
Report.
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Carried
Resolution #83/23
Moved by Councillor Pickles
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
That due to the remaining items of business on the agenda, the meeting be
extended to allow Council to continue to meet beyond 12:00 a.m .
Carried
11.3 Director, Community Services, Report CS 05-23
Community Safety and Well-Being Initiatives
-Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Centre - Use as Emergency Overnight
Warming Centre – Change in Location
-Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Arena Dressing Rooms –
Outreach Shower Facilities – Change in Operation
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
whether the overnight shelter at Chestnut Hill was implemented so that
individuals who visited Chestnut Hill for shelter no longer needed to travel
to the East Shore facility as Chestnut Hill would now provide overnight
shelter to those in need; and,
the need to hear good new stories regarding homeless issues through Staff
and not the Social Media.
Resolution #84/23
Moved by Councillor Pickles
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
1.That Report CS 05-23 regarding the implementation of Community Safety
and Well-Being Initiatives be received;
2.That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Memorandum
of Understanding with Christian Faith Outreach Centre (CFOC), set out in
Attachment 1 to this report, for use of the O’Brien Room at Chestnut Hill
Developments Recreation Complex (CHDRC), for emergency overnight
warming centre, subject to minor revisions as may be required by the
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Director, Community Services and the Director, Corporate Services & City
Solicitor;
3.That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Memorandum
of Understanding with DARS Inc., set out in Attachment 2 to this report, for
use of the CHRDC Arena Dressing Rooms, for outreach shower facilities,
subject to minor revisions as may be required by the Director, Community
Services and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and,
4.That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Carried
11.4 Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 05-23
Update on Bill 23 More Homes, Built Faster Act
A Financial Perspective
Resolution #85/23
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
That Report FIN 05-23 regarding an updated financial assessment related to Bill
23 be received for information.
Carried
11.5 Director, Finance & Treasurer , Report FIN 06-23
Approval to Award the Contract to NTT Data Business Solutions Incorporated for
SAP Application Management Services
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding the amount of the project that would be funded through tax payer
dollars.
Resolution #86/23
Moved by Councillor Pickles
Seconded by Councillor Butt
1.That Council approve the engagement of NTT Data Business Solutions
Incorporated, under section 10.03 (c) of the City’s Purchasing Policy, in the
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amount of $112,450.00 (net HST), for a term of one year, with potential
renewals for successive one year terms, provided that terms and
conditions, upon renewal, remaining in favor and alignment with City
objectives;
2.That the total project cost of $112,450.00 (net HST) and other associated
costs be funded over a one year period be approved;
3.That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to approve any
additional scope changes that may be required to cover additional work to
be completed, or which may be required to there being sufficient funding
available;
4.That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to fund the net
project cost of $112,450.00 from the capital account (WBS
C10600.1801.90); and,
5.That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions to give effect hereto.
Carried
11.6 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report LEG 03-23
Regulation of Short Term Rentals
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
whether staff had look at the possibility of using a disturbance by-law to
address concerns;
mechanisms in place to turn over criminal wrongdoings to the DRPS;
how staff would determine the areas that would permit Short Term Rentals
(STR);
whether there would be mechanism in place for a homeowner residing in
an area where STRs were prohibited to list their home as a STR should
they face a financial crisis;
how renters would be required to acknowledge and agree to standards of
behaviors;
the maximum timeframe for a short-term rental;
whether long term renters needed to abide by the standards of behaviors;
who would be responsible for maintaining rental records and who would be
verifying the identity of the renters;
the process for accepting applications and the retention of those related
records;
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the number of STR issues brought to the attention of the City; and,
whether charges would be laid on the owner or the renter.
Resolution #87/23
Moved by Councillor Pickles
Seconded by Councillor Robinson
That Report LEG 03-23 regarding the regulation of short term rentals be received
for information.
Note: The disposition of this matter was
determined through the following referral motion
Resolution #88/23
Moved by Councillor Cook
Seconded by Councillor Nagy
That Report LEG 03-23 be referred back to Staff to bring forward a revised work
plan following the March 7, 2023 meeting with Durham Regional Police Services
and that Staff report back at the March 27, 2023 Council Meeting.
Carried
Resolution #89/23
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Pickles
That the order of the agenda be changed to hear Item 13, ‘By-laws’, and Item 14,
‘Confidential Council – Public Report’ as the next items of business.
Carried
13.By-laws
13.1 By-law 7991/23
Being a By-law to amend Restricted Area (Zoning) By-law 7364/14, to implement
the Official Plan of the City of Pickering, Region of Durham, for land at Part Lots
27 and 28, Concession 5, City of Pickering (A 04/22).
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13.2 By-law 7992/23
Being a by-law to regulate the operation and use of electric kick-scooters in the
City of Pickering.
13.3 By-law 7993/23
Being a by-law to exempt Blocks 117, 177 and 178, Plan 40M-2632, from the part
lot control provisions of the Planning Act.
Resolution #90/23
Moved by Councillor Pickles
Seconded by Councillor Cook
That By-law Numbers 7991/23 through 7993/23 be approved.
Carried
14.Confidential Council – Public Report
Mayor Ashe stated that prior to the Regular Council Meeting, an In-camera session was
held at 5:45 p.m. in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Act and Procedure
By-law 7665/18 to consider matters pertaining to the security of the property of the
municipality, litigation including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the
municipality, and to receive advice that is subject t o solicitor-client privilege as it pertains
to the Corporate Security Annual Report and an Appeal of Official Plan Amendment 38 to
the OLT.
14.1 Confidential Memorandum from the Director, City Development & CBO, and
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
Re: Council Direction Regarding Appeal of Official Plan Amendment 38 Decision
City File: OPA 20-004/P City Initiated
OLT File: OLT-22-004770
Resolution #91/23
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Pickles
That, with respect to the appeals of Proposed Official Plan Amendment 38, (file
OPA 20-004/P, initiated by the City of Pickering), the City respond, and that staff
be directed to retain such external legal, planning and other consulting resources
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as are required to defend Council’s adoption of Amendment and of the Regional
Commissioner of Planning & Economic Development’s decision to approve the
Amendment (as modified) at the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Carried
Mayor Ashe noted that a recess would be in order in accordance with the City’s
Procedure By-law to consider the remaining items of business on the Agenda at
a future meeting date.
Resolution #92/23
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Robinson
That the Council Meeting of February 27, 2023 recess until 7:00 p.m. on March 8,
2023.
Carried
Council recessed at 12:52 a.m. on February 27, 2023 and reconvened at 7:00
p.m. on March 8, 2023.
Mayor Ashe stated that at the February 27 th Council Meeting, a delegate had
made disrespectful comments towards Councillor Nagy and stated that although
he had condemned the behavior, he could have been more forceful in standing
up for Councillor Nagy. He stated that in essence he had failed in h is
responsibility to maintain decorum and civility and added that at the conclusion of
the meeting he had apologized to Councillor Nagy and thanked Councillor Nagy
for accepting the apology.
Mayor Ashe advised that during the same evening a resident had emailed all of
Council as they were troubled by what they had witnessed and expressed the
need to maintain proper and respectful behavior at all times. Mayor Ashe noted
that decorum and civility should be the foundation of the City’s public meetings
and the need to have meaningful discussion with all viewpoints being considered.
He stated that respect and civility should also be extended to staff as they
deserved to be treated properly and pledged his commitment to uphold decorum
in Council meetings.
12.Motions and Notice of Motions
12.1 Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources
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A discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of
Council and staff regarding:
the need create, maintain, and protects jobs in agriculture to address
climate change;
the business case for an airport being nonexistent;
the Paris Planet Agreement adopted in 2016 as a global effort to fight
climate change;
the City of Pickering achieving the #5 Milestone of the Partners for Climate
Protection Program in 2015, City Council endorsing the Corporate Energy
Management Plan in 2019, and making a public commitment to resilient
development and long term climate action;
an airport in Pickering displacing jobs and employm ent already in place in
the agricultural job sector;
the intent of the motion being to request that no additional resources be
utilized to promote an airport in Pickering;
the proposed motion not hindering the City’s chances of receiving a High
Frequency Railway station in Pickering;
a resolution being passed recently by the Region of Durham regarding a
High Frequency Railway station in Durham Region;
whether there was any consultation between City staff and Members of
Council regarding the Notice of Motion;
whether the Pickering Official Plan had a designation for an airport in
Pickering;
whether a reasonable person could come to a different conclusion on the
KPMG study that was different from the Notice of Motion and the report by
Land Over Landings;
whether a reasonable person could come to a conclusion that the lack of
support for an airport could affect the possibility of receiving a High
Frequency Railway station in Pickering;
Greater Toronto Airport Authority’s (GTAA) support for an airport in
Pickering;
whether the information from the 2017 KPMG report was outdated; and,
the Notice of Motion being premature.
Resolution #93/23
Moved by Councillor Nagy
Seconded by Councillor Cook
WHEREAS, in May 2016, Transport Canada awarded a contract to KPMG to
undertake a Pickering Lands Aviation Sector Analysis to update the supply and
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demand forecasts of the 2010 Needs Assessment Study: Pickering Lands and to
develop and assess type and role options for a future airport and provide an
economic impact report;
And Whereas, on October 10, 2017, Pickering Council passed Resolution #355/17
declaring that “the Federal Government be advised that the City of Pickering
supports the development of an airport in Pickering, subject to the results
identified in the Aviation Sector Analysis – Pickering Airport Study and the
appropriate Environmental Assessments”;
And Whereas, Toronto Pearson International’s current Master Plan, published in
December 2017, stated that Pearson’s runway capacity would be “sufficient to
2037” without adding the already approved sixth runway;
And Whereas, the KPMG analysis was completed in 2019 and the Supply and
Demand analysis found that, for the study’s 2016-2036 planning horizon, “there
will be sufficient capacity in the southern Ontario airports system … without the
requirement to build a new airport”, and KPMG reached this conclusion without
considering the effects of climate change and its future impacts on aviation;
And Whereas, KPMG cautioned that there was “a significant level of unce rtainty”
around scenarios that examined types of airports offering services other than
commercial passenger services, that the scenarios were “exploratory in nature”,
and that “conclusions cannot be drawn” from those exercises;
And Whereas, on December 16, 2019, the Council of the City of Pickering
endorsed a Climate Change Declaration resolution that undertook to “strive for a
reduction in greenhouse gas emissions to reduce the local and global impacts of
climate change”;
And Whereas, then Transport Minister Marc Garneau wrote to Durham Regional
Chair John Henry on March 25, 2020, to confirm KPMG’s finding of “no immediate
need for additional airport capacity in the Greater Toronto Area” and that “any
decision on the future of the Pickering Lands must be based on a sound business
case…”;
Now therefore it be it resolved:
1.That based on KPMG’s conclusion that a sound supply-and-demand
business case could not be made for a Pickering airport up to 2036, and
based on the City’s declared intention to reduce its greenhouse gas
emissions, the Council for The Corporation of the City of Pickering does not
support an airport on the Pickering Lands; and that no further resources
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and/or funds be utilized to promote an airport on the Pickering Lands; and
that the City of Pickering continue to endorse support for a High Frequency
Rail option with a station located in Green River as the preferred
transportation network; and,
2.That this resolution be forwarded to the Minister of Transport Canada,
Omar Alghabra, and to Pickering-Uxbridge MP O’Connell, as well as to
MPs Anandasangaree, Carrie, Holland, Jaczek, Turnbull, and O’Toole; to
Durham and York regional councils, and to Scarborough East councillors;
and to the municipal councils of Ajax, Markham, Oshawa, Scugog,
Stouffville, Uxbridge, Vaughan, and Whitby.
Note: The disposition of this matter was
determined through the following deferral motion
Resolution #94/23
Moved by Councillor Robinson
Seconded by Councillor Pickles
That the Motion regarding an Opposition to a Pickering Airport and
Utilization of Resources be deferred to the April 24, 2023 Council Meeting.
Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows:
Yes
Councillor Butt
Councillor Pickles
Councillor Robinson
Mayor Ashe
No
Councillor Brenner
Councillor Cook
Councillor Nagy
12.2 North East Pickering Carruthers Creek Watershed – Seeking an Agreement from
the Town of Ajax
A discussion and question and answer period ensued between Members of
Council and staff regarding:
no one having contacted the Town of Ajax regarding whether their
concerns pertaining to the Watershed on Carruthers Creek had been
satisfied;
the consultation that took place between staff and Members of Council with
drafting the Notice of Motion;
the level of involvement the Town of Ajax would have in the Secondary
Plan;
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the wording of the Notice of Motion being unclear and how satisfaction of
the Town of Ajax would be measured;
whether the Town of Ajax had acted on the EAs of the Study they had
undertaken with regards to the Carruthers Watershed;
whether the motion was a reconsideration of Council Resolution #347/20
and whether a reconsideration of the motion would be in order as action
had already been taken on the Council Resolution;
whether the City was close to approving a Secondary Plan;
whether the City had excluded its ability to implement an interim control by-
law; and,
whether there were other instances where municipalities required the
approval of other municipalities.
Resolution #95/23
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Cook
WHEREAS, Council Resolution 347/20 pertaining to a Request for an MZO for
Lands in North East Pickering (Veraine) was amended at the June 29th Meeting
of Council to include a new Item 2(b);
And Whereas, amendment Resolution 348/20 directed Staff to include the August
Secondary Plan Strategy the ability to implement an interim control By-law prior to
any approvals to ensure that the Town of Ajax is satisfied with any matters
pertaining to the Watershed on Carruthers Creek;
And Whereas, the direction of the Council has not been acted upon nor have any
other options been put forward by the Staff from the City of Pickering to enable an
agreement to be entered into with the Town of Ajax on this matter;
Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering requests:
1.The Town of Ajax to advise the City of Pickering if their concerns pertaining
to the Watershed on Carruthers Creek have been satisfied and/or if they
have entered into any agreement with Dorsay Pickering Limited and/or any
other Landowners in North East Pickering as referenced in item
7.10 Correspondence 26-20; and,
2.That a Copy of this resolution be sent to the Town of Ajax, Durham Region
and the Minister of Municipal Affairs.
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Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows:
Yes
Councillor Brenner
Councillor Cook
Councillor Nagy
Councillor Robinson
No
Councillor Butt
Councillor Pickles
Mayor Ashe
12.3 Durham Meadoway Enhancements and Amendments
A discussion and question and answer period ensued between Members of
Council and staff regarding:
the Durham Meadoway being a good opportunity for Pickering;
whether staff were also providing comments and suggestions to the Region
regarding the Durham Meadoway and the need for the comment
submission to include both the staff’s comments and the Notice of Motion;
materials that would be used for an artificial ice-skating trail;
who would be absorbing the cost of the Project; and,
how the input of other municipalities would affect the vision of the Project.
Resolution #96/23
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Robinson
WHEREAS, the Durham Meadoway is a proposed active transportation corridor
and greenspace connecting Rouge National Urban Park in the City of Pickering to
Simcoe Street in the City of Oshawa;
And Whereas, the Durham Meadoway will connect four municipalities along 27
kilometres of the Gatineau Hydro Corridor;
And Whereas, the City of Pickering is a Municipal/Community Stakeholder;
And Whereas, the Visioning Study to create the Durham Meadoway will identify
enhancements and amenities that will help foster a distinct sense of place and
make the multi-use path easier and more comfortable to use;
Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering makes the following recommendations to Durham Region for inclusion in
the Durham Meadoway:
1.Low level non-intrusive lighting along the Multi Use Trail System;
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2.Rest Stations situated along the Multi Use Trail System;
3.Artificial Ice Surface Skating Trail to be located in either Segment 1 or 2;
and,
4.That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to Alia Tulloch, Transportation
and Planning, Region of Durham and Staff to be included in the City’s
complete comments submission to the Region of Durham.
Carried
It was the consensus of Council to take a short recess.
Council recessed at 8:18 p.m. and reconvened at 8:26 p.m.
12.4 Community Inclusion Lab – Modernizing Civic Engagement Through Innovation
Practice
A discussion and question and answer period ensued between Members of
Council and staff regarding:
the Notice of Motion providing an opportunity to work with a number of
individuals from the community and organizations;
whether there would be any costs associated with the creation of a T hink
Tank and the need to for staff to investigate the Notice of Motion and report
back on the matter;
the process for creating a committee under the City’s current policies and
the need for more information on the initiative; and,
how this body would fit into current plans and initiatives underway at the
staff level such as the City’s Strategic Plan.
Resolution #97/23
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Cook
WHEREAS, the City of Pickering is committed to a process of collaboration and
consultation to build a City that works for all;
And Whereas, community engagement is one of Pickering’s highest priorities as it
increases transparency and accountability; promotes inclusiveness and diversity;
improves decision-making; enhances civic engagement; and strengthens trust
between residents and City Hall;
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And Whereas, to achieve an inclusive framework enabling residents to be involved
it is imperative to remove all barriers;
And Whereas, the goal of a Community Inclusion Lab (CIL) is to extend the
benefits of insight and innovation processes to find creative new ways to engage
communities, tap into their knowledge and experience, promote exceptionally high
quality of experience and build civic pride;
And Whereas, the CIL can be a modernization mechanism for reaching deeply
into our diverse communities to engage, understand, mobilize and respond to a
range of diverse issues;
Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering takes the following actions:
1.Appoint Deputy Mayor Brenner to lead a Think Tank through the creation of
a Community Inclusion Lab;
2.And that Pickering Resident Dave Sora be appointed to act as Co-Lead;
3.And that the Think Tank will draw upon a range of Community Reso urces
to garner their expertise;
4.Will collaborate with the Division Head, Public Affairs & Corporate
Communications; and,
5.Will report back to Council no later than end of Q3 on the status of the work
of the Think Tank.
Lost on a Recorded Vote as Follows:
Yes
Councillor Brenner
Councillor Cook
Councillor Nagy
No
Councillor Butt
Councillor Pickles
Councillor Robinson
Mayor Ashe
12.5 Veterans Flag Raising
A discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of
Council and staff regarding:
how many flag poles were at the cenotaph;
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whether the Canadian flag and the veterans flag would be flown for all of
November;
whether the Legion was consulted on the Notice of Motion;
clarification on the timing for flying the poppy flag and the flag for Truth and
Reconciliation; and,
concerns from community groups that Council based motions override
traditional processes where requests are made directly by community
groups.
Resolution #98/23
Moved by Councillor Robinson
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
WHEREAS, the Legion inspires Canadians to remember those who made the
ultimate sacrifice for our country;
And Whereas, a Veterans flag dedicated to honoring those who served, those
whom paid the ultimate sacrifice, and those who continue to serve today deserve
to be recognized throughout the entire month of November;
And Whereas, The Corporation of the City of Pickering has flag-raising
ceremonies at the Civic Complex designating given periods of time to recognize
the efforts and commitments of an individual, event or organizati on that enhances
our community;
And Whereas, on the last Friday in October, a Poppy flag is raised to create
awareness of the Legions Poppy Campaign raising funds to support Veterans and
their families in need;
Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering direct through the Office of the CAO an amendment to the policy of flag
raising to include:
1.The Legions Poppy Campaign flag raising from the last Friday in October
until after the Remembrance Ceremony;
2.The raising of a Veterans flag immediately following the lowering of the
Poppy Campaign flag to be flown at the Cenotaph until Sunset on the 30 th
day of November each year; and,
3.To come into effect October 2023.
Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
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12.6 Public Disclosure of Address
A discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of
Council and staff regarding:
the Notice of Motion intending to protect the privacy of delegates and
delegates still being required to provide their contact information at the time
of registration;
whether written correspondence placed on public agendas excluded the
address of the correspondent;
whether the Notice of Motion required an amendment to the City’s
Procedure By-law;
the need for residents to identify whether they were Pickering residents;
whether delegates were still able to identify their address should they wish
to do so; and,
whether Council could still clarify with the individual on where they live
within the City generally.
Resolution #99/23
Moved by Councillor Robinson
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
WHEREAS, open and unfettered access to Municipal government is a vital aspect
of local democracy;
And Whereas, The Corporation of the City of Pickering requires delegates to
disclose personal information about their home address within their delegation;
And Whereas, no mechanism is in place to protect access to this information;
And Whereas, disclosing delegates home addresses during an open forum is a
matter of public safety and security;
And Whereas, The Corporation of the City of Pickering has a responsibility to
prevent delegates from being in danger and/or causing them undue stress as a
result;
And Whereas, delegation addresses become part of the public record;
Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering directs through the Office of the CAO to stop the practice of requiring
delegations to publicly disclose their home address during their delegation.
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Carried
12.7 Urban Farming
A discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of
Council and staff regarding:
the City of Toronto having a similar pilot project;
the City’s exotic animal by-law prohibiting chicken raising and whether
enforcement would be waived during the pilot project;
the possibility for the Notice of Motion to create conflict between
neighbours;
concerns regarding coyotes and other animals being drawn into
communities;
the staff report on the matter needing to provide information on identifying
the pilot locations, engagement opportunities, health, safety and
inspections, and an update on the City of Toronto’s pilot project
Resolution #100/23
Moved by Councillor Robinson
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
WHEREAS, The Corporation of the City of Pickering promotes itself as becoming
one of the most sustainable cities in Canada;
And Whereas, rising inflation and grocery prices are affecting the food choices of
families making healthy food inaccessible;
And Whereas, poor nutrition ultimately affects one’s overall health putting a
burden on our healthcare system;
And Whereas, supplying families with nutritious eggs raised without hormones and
antibiotics at a low cost;
And Whereas, chickens eat grass clippings and food scraps thereby reducing
waste;
And Whereas, looking after hens makes staying at home enjoyable and helps
educate children about chicken farming;
Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering directs through the Office of the CAO to consult with stakeholders
regarding the implementation of an Urban Farming pilot project for the enjoyment
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of Urban backyard egg production only and Urban Farming to include Vertical
Farming, and Urban Farming to include Vertical Farming, and that staff report
back to Council no later than the end of Q2.
Carried
12.8 Implementation Office of Affordability
A discussion and question and answer period ensued between Members of
Council and staff regarding:
the need for a quantitative definition for affordable housing;
the challenges posed by the current housing market and amendments to
provincial legislation;
the proposed staffing model;
social and affordable housing being under the Region’s jurisdiction and
concerns regarding the overlapping of similar work that the Region m ay be
undertaking;
ensuring that the City does not take a lead role on the purchase or building
of affordable housing;
holding the developers responsible for affordable housing; and,
the Region not having a clear definition of affordable housing and how the
Notice of Motion would affect the Region.
Resolution #101/23
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Nagy
WHEREAS, resolution #790/22 gave direction for Planning and Development
“To consider adding a dedicated function similar to an Office of Affordability, within
the City, the scope of work which include implementing the Pickering Housing
Strategy & Action Plan 2021–2031, December 22, 2021”;
And Whereas, one of the key priorities for residents of Pickering and the
Government of Ontario is the obtainability and accessibility of affordable housing;
And Whereas, recent changes to Legislation by the Province of Ontario will result
in the City of Pickering experiencing unprecedented growth with little to no
guarantees that it will achieve affordability options for first-time homeowners,
families and older adults;
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And Whereas, the lack of affordable and sustainable housing have reached a
crisis in our City, across Durham Region and the GTHA;
Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering directs the following:
1.That an Office of Affordability (OA) be created within the City Development
Department;
2.That the role of the OA include but not be limited to (a) research and
recommend a definition for housing affordability in the City of Pickering (b)
be the subject expert/resource for all available programs/funding
opportunities from all levels of government that can assist
developers/builders to achieve affordability (c) review and comment on all
applications to the City Development Department under the affordability
lens;
3.That the Director of City Development be directed through the Office of the
CAO to develop a staffing model that will ensure it is sufficiently staffed and
same be included in the 2023 Current Budget for implementation no later
than Q3; and,
4.That the Director of Finance work with the Director of City Development to
amend the fee formula for processing applications by City Development to
reflect the operating cost for the OA.
Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
15.Other Business
15.1 Councillor Butt gave notice that he would be bringing forward a Notice of Motion
regarding the financial needs for the victims of Turkey and Syria.
15.2 Councillor Robinson stated that the prior notice she had given for a Notice of
Motion regarding Tree preservation on private property would also include the
protection of urban forests and address maximum pavement coverage on private
properties.
15.3 Councillor Robinson gave notice that she would be bringing forward a Notice of
Motion regarding increasing the current minimum radius notification for planning
applications.
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15.4 Councillor Robinson gave notice that she would be bringing forward a Notice of
Motion on making public consultation processes more accessible by removing the
requirement to input certain pieces of personal information on surveys.
15.5 Mayor Ashe spoke to the number of notice of motions brought forward and the
need for collaboration with staff for their input and added that lengthy meetings
were not sustainable.
Discussion ensued regarding the possibility of including a question and answer
period with staff at the end of meetings in the Procedure By-law and more
effective methods of circulating correspondence to Council, and notices of motion
so that Members were aware of them prior to the publication of the agenda .
16.Confirmation By-law
By-law Number 7994/23
Councillor Brenner, seconded by Councillor Robinson moved for leave to introduce a By-
law of the City of Pickering to confirm the proceedings of February 27, 2023.
Carried
17.Adjournment
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Nagy
That the meeting be adjourned.
Carried
The meeting adjourned at 9:53 p.m.
Dated this 8th of March, 2023.
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
Susan Cassel, City Clerk